Google has kicked off the second edition of its Google for Startups Accelerator: Apps programme, designed to help 20 promising Indian startups make the most of artificial intelligence (AI) and scale their app-based businesses.
Supported by Google Play and run in partnership with the MeitY Startup Hub, this three-month programme offers startups access to cutting-edge AI tools, expert mentoring, and one-on-one support from Google’s engineers and researchers.
“The startup ecosystem in India has always been a source of huge motivation and excitement for us at Google Play and we’re looking forward to accelerating the next class of AI powered app based startups in India,” said Paula Wang, managing director of APAC partnerships at Google Play.
Wang added that the accelerator equips startups not just with AI expertise, but also with business and commercial tools they can use to grow and scale effectively. The aim, she said, is to help startups deploy these tools confidently and continue expanding as they progress.
The programme welcomes startups already working with AI or looking to bring AI into their apps.
This new cohort will shine a spotlight on AI, helping startups build smarter apps, boost user experience, tighten security, and speed up their growth. Participants will also get tailored reports on how their apps are performing on the Play Store.
The first edition of the programme saw strong results, with startups making big strides in tech development, design, and user engagement.
Applications are now open and will close on May 15.
The programme kicks off in July with a week-long boot camp. In the meantime, Google will host virtual open forums every Thursday to answer questions and help startups get to know the initiative better.